
The perfect survivalist blade is subjective, but there are some aspects of a good blade that easily set it apart from most on the market. You want a thick, well-honed blade that holds its sharpness for a long time. Additionally, you want a strong handle, made of a quality material, that fits your grip, because there’s nothing worse than a handle that fails to become an extension of your hand. A comfortable, yet reliable sheath can be just as important as the handle, and yet they can also become a burden in the field.
I’ve featured a few different styles of survivalist blades on the blog before, and while I still recommend each style, there are a rare few that have stuck with me through my trips, and one of those is the Tataille blade by Smith & Sons. It’s a wicked cool blade with a high quality blade, a very nice and ergonomic handle, which comes outfitted with a high end leather sheath. For starters, the blade length runs 5 1/8” with an overall length measuring at 9 5/8”, so it’s not a massive bushwhacking knife, but it’s no slouch either. Personally, I think the Tataille is the perfect size, because it’s not too large to become overburdening, yet it’s not too small to be ineffective, even in the worst conditions and/or situations. The blade itself comes very sharp, and seems to hold its edge as well as any blade I’ve tested. Though it might be fair to suggest that you ask me again once I’ve tested it for a full year of expeditions.
The blade is sharpened smooth, with a flat grind and jimping on its spine, and the handle comes in three differing shades of Micarta. Although the finish of the metal is rugged and industrial looking, it is the sheath that is perhaps the most unique aspect of Smith & Sons work, because of its shape and high end craftsmanship. It’s strong, high quality, long lasting and beautiful, which seems to allude most survivalist and tactical blade makers these days. All in all, I found the Tataille by Smith & Sons to be a very solid blade, built to be multi-functional, yet provide the user with the utmost quality in material and craftsmanship. It’s a blade that will last, even through the thickest and most trying situations one might find themselves in when traveling abroad. I found it more than capable of slicing through thick brush, hunting and skinning, as well as whittling and chopping, among other essential and life-saving tasks.
If you would like to find out more about Smith & Sons Knife Company, click here.
Article written & Photos by Brandon Scott / Eye & Pen